Fetal exposure to radiation from the use of cell phones during pregnancy has been linked to hyperactivity later in life, according to a new study from the Yale School of Medicine. The study, published in Scientific Reports, measured the brain activity of adult mice who had been exposed to cell phone radiation in utero against a control group, and also compared results of behavioral and psychological tests. The study found that the exposed mice were at increased risk for ADHD-like behaviors and had reduced memory capacity.

"This is the first experimental evidence that fetal exposure to radiofrequency radiation from cellular telephones does in fact affect adult behavior," said senior author Dr. Hugh S. Taylor, professor and chief of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, which may help explain the rise of ADHD diagnoses. However, further research is needed in humans to better explore the connection and to determine a safe level of exposure.